Twickenham's Eel Pie Island is an enclave of west London enveloped in musical legend, artistic curios galore — and a healthy dose of secrecy.
Though you can cross the footbridge onto the piscatorially-monikered island anytime you like, you'll only get a tantalising whiff of the creative minds buzzing inside (think shrubbery-ensconced huts festooned with headless mannequins, skeletons in cages and other forms of screwball sculpture).
But for two weekends this July, you can gain access to Eel Pie Island's inner sanctum, thanks to its Open Studios series.
On Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July 2026 — and again on Saturday 11 and Saturday 12 July 2026 — you're invited into the creative hubs of the artists who live and work on this unique island.
While enjoying a rare opportunity to hobnob with the locals, you can peruse handmade oil paintings, jewellery, ceramic sculptures and caricatures. There's even someone who transforms vintage cases into portable Bluetooth speakers. How very Eel Pie Island.
And of course, if any particular treasure ruffles your truffles, you can take it back ashore without having to go through customs. Refreshments are also available (we once had a Pimm's here surrounded by some VERY interesting sculptures), so all in all it makes for a grand couple of hours away from the shackles of mainland life.
It's free to access Eel Pie Island for the open days, but you MUST book a two-hour time slot. DON'T just show up, or you won't get onto the island!
While you're in Twickenham, we recommend a trip to Eel Pie Island Museum, which details the island's rock n' roll roots — including The Who, the Stones and Pink Floyd — as well as famous residents, including the late Trevor Baylis, inventor of the wind-up radio. The museum's on the Twickenham mainland, and you can visit any time of year, Thursday-Sunday.
There's also Twickenham Museum, open Friday-Sunday. What a thoroughly cultured place Twickenham is.
Eel Pie Island Artists Summer Open Studios, 4, 5, 11 and 12 July 2026, 11am-5pm, free entry, book ahead.
